Exploring how epigenetic changes affect stress intolerance in chronic pain patients
The Role of Epigenetic Mechanisms in Stress Intolerance in Patients With Chronic Widespread Pain
This study is trying to see how changes in our genes related to stress affect people with chronic pain compared to healthy individuals.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 88 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 70 Years |
| Sex | Female |
| Sponsor | Vrije Universiteit Brussel Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Brussels) |
| Trial ID | NCT06475859 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study investigates the role of epigenetic mechanisms in stress intolerance among patients with chronic widespread pain (CWP). It involves a randomized cross-over design with 44 CWP patients and 44 healthy controls, who will undergo mental stress tests and relaxation breathing interventions. Participants will complete questionnaires and undergo various assessments, including blood withdrawals and neurophysiological measurements, to evaluate stress-induced epigenetic changes. The goal is to better understand the pathophysiology of CWP and identify potential new treatment avenues.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are females aged 18 to 70 with a diagnosis of fibromyalgia and a BMI below 30.
Not a fit: Patients with other neurological, endocrine, cardiac, or systemic syndromes, or those with a history of cancer or heart failure may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved understanding and management of stress intolerance in patients with chronic widespread pain.
How similar studies have performed: While research on epigenetic mechanisms in CWP is scarce, similar studies in other conditions have shown promising results, indicating potential for success.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * female * age between 18 and 70 years old * body mass index (BMI) below 30 * inactive lifestyle * for patients only: received the diagnosis of fibromyalgia Exclusion Criteria: * other neurological, endocrine, cardiac, or systemic syndromes * history of cancer or heart failure * women that are pregnant or within one year after pregnancy
Where this trial is running
Brussels
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel - UZ Brussel — Brussels, Belgium (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Jo Nijs, PhD — Vrije Universiteit Brussel
- Study coordinator: Jolien Hendrix, MSc
- Email: jolien.hendrix@vub.be
- Phone: 02 629 20 10
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.